Sorry for taking sooooo long to update you about Jonathan. Time flew by!!!! December 7th 2007 marked the one year anniversary since Jonathan came home from Children’s Hospital. It was a trying but exciting year. Jonathan came home on 27 different medications but now only needs 11. He still experiences periodic discomfort but to a lesser extent than before. His aimless thrashing movements have slowed and occasionally he is able to turn his head from side to side, as if following the sound of a voice. Although he generally remains unable to control his movements or talk, his disposition and comfort levels have improved. We have tried to get him to eat small bits of banana and baby food by mouth on a few occasions and he sometimes seems to enjoy chewing and swallowing although he still receives his nutrition and medications directly into his stomach via his ‘gastric tube’. Take a look in the photo gallery, there is a picture of Jonathan is holding his head up and is on his elbows. He had to be placed in this position, and can stay this way for about 10-15 seconds.
We’ve been busy doing ABR (Advanced Biomechanical Rehabilitation) therapy 4-6 hours per day…every day! This is an alternative therapy designed to restore normal physical movements and Jonathan appears to be benefiting from it. To help with his medical and care expenses, neighbors and coworkers arranged two fantastic fundraisers. In June, of 2007 Dave’s coworkers held a softball benefit and in September 2007, friends and neighbors had a Golf outing. Both events were a huge success and we can’t thank everyone enough for the hard work, dedication and kindness they have shown to Jonathan and our family. It is because of everyone’s generosity and support that we are able to continue with ABR as well as explore other avenues of treatment. With the coming of 2008, we are hoping and praying that Jonathan continues to experience more positive changes and reach new milestones. Once again, we want to thank everyone for their support and wish you a happy and healthy New Year!
We found out through the California Encephalitis project that there were a few kids in Northern California that had the exact symptoms as Jonathan. . Some of the kids after a few years are walking, talking and eating again. We don’t have anymore details about those kids but we are working on it. We have contacted some lawyers about setting up a foundation, to help Jonathan and other kids with similar challenges it is a lengthy and expensive process …. but we know it will be rewarding.
September 5, 2008 is Jonathan’s Second Annual Golf Outing at the Bucks County Country Club in Jamison, PA. This year the organizers have arranged a fantastic event for golfers of all skill levels. So please sign up early. Last year this event sold out!!! Go to his website www.Jonathanburkefoundation.com click on upcoming events for more details. We thank everyone for your continued support and payers that you have offered to Jonathan. Please continue to believe that he will have perfect health…..